Re: e28 improvement

[Chris Graff <GraffF1@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi everyone,

About the e28 improvements...here are some of my thoughts:


> > I have a virtually original e-28, 535i. I'd like to begin improving
> > performance while keeping it streetable and minimizing down time, so no major
> > rebuilds nor bodywork (has front dam). Wheels are metric, Lots of tread on the
> > TRXs.  What I'm looking for is a plan of attack. What to do first....chip,
> > suspension, header, exhaust, fluids???
>
>
>        Change ALL the fluids but run some Techron through
>        the fuel system before changing the oil. Be sure to
>        use the correct final drive oil if you have LSD.

Redline fluids also seem in demand and have good reviews. Especially the
tranny oil in colder climes.

>        
>        Remove and clean the AFM, throttle butterfly and
>        idle control valve. Fit new air filter if needed.
>
>        Clean and check every electrical contact and fuse in sight!
>
>        New Bosch Silber spark plugs. Check distributor cap
>        and rotor, they wear quickly on these engines.
>
>        Renew all the rubber fuel hoses, especially the one
>        to the cold start valve. By now they will be cracked
>        inside and about to leak.

Very good preventive maintenance....will keep you free of headaches for
the next 100k miles or more.

>        Fit front strut brace, makes a big difference on older 
>        BMWs especially if you later modify the suspension.
>
>        Replace the TRXs with 16" wheels that don't look too
>        modern and 225/50ZR16 tyres. Don't get directional
>        ones if you lower the suspension as one shoulder
>        will wear faster and you can't swap them over. May
>        as well keep the TRXs until they wear down a bit more.

Agreed, but I used 15 inchers instead because they fit the wheel wells
much nicer on my car. I also have all seasons....which work OK in
snow... I suggest 16 alloy inchers (preferably BMW styles) for summer
and 14 inchers (Maybe 15) steel rims (maybe alloys for 15") with snow
tires for winter. 

>
>        Stiffer suspension that lowers no more than 30mm.
>        Don't go to hard, many folk consider Bilstein
>        overkill but that's up to personal preference. Mine
>        is half way between stock and Bilstein.

Follow the guidelines for the "sport" suspension found on U.S. M5's or
535iS models. They lower the car slightly and I suggest to use Bilstein
OEM (ones found on euro M535i's and maybe 535is US models, but I'm not
positive on the US models). They are VERY nice. My car's superb like
that....and you'll be pleasantly surprised at the nice handling that
results. Also, make sure that the front end has had it's shimmy taken
out and tighten up all of the parts. Going through a nice set of twisty
bits with that suspension is sweet!! :-)

Take a look at my web-site....not only do you see a nice M535i, but I
have some other info there, AND some very useful E28 links (that should
REALLY be updated soon....oh well).

>
>        Short shifter.

Definitely. Try a Ben Liaw Sport Shifter. 

>
>        Euro bumpers. Look better, save weight.

A PITA to put on on US models. Fix the ugly US bumpers with front
spoiler and rear skirt if you really want to. Anyway the big bumpers
come in good use in the city or parallel parking.  :-)  DON'T try that
with euros!  --> Like mine!

>
>        750iL lower thrust arm bushings.
>
>        E32 front brake upgrade.

Same, like I talked about getting the front end shimmy out and renewing
all bushings and other parts. Also watch out for drivetrain
parts....guibo, tranny bushings, rear diff bushing and the like....they
go at about 120-150k. 

>
> You'll notice I have done little to the engine. I honestly
> doubt you'll see any real world benefits from anything other
> than the chip and some will hurt driveability. The money is
> better spent on suspension and brakes. Improve the car but
> don't try to make it something it isn't. Have fun, the
> E24/28 are the best BMWs ever made in my opinion.

I whole-heartedly agree here.

 
:)Regards
- -Chris Graff

Middletown, New Jersey
GraffF1@domain.elided
GraffF1@domain.elided

1986 BMW M535i
BMW CCA 159803
www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Downs/5008/m_index.html
GP2 Simulation Racer ;-)

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